Indian Red Cross Society to Offer Free Blood to Low-Income Patients in Private Hospitals

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Posted by pallavi on 2024-08-13 13:08:56 |

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The Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) is set to launch a new initiative providing free blood to patients from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families who are admitted to private hospitals. This program will begin coinciding with the inauguration of IRCS's centenary building, expected in the next six months, as announced by Shantharam Shetty, Chairman of the IRCS Mangaluru chapter.

The new three-story building, under construction near the Deputy Commissioner's office, is a major project costing ₹6 crore, funded by various donations. This facility will enhance IRCS's ability to support low-income patients by providing crucial blood supplies without charge.

Currently, the IRCS’s Blood Bank, located at Government Lady Goschen Hospital, already supports approximately 25 women daily with free blood during childbirth, totaling about 6,000 units annually. The monthly expenditure for this service is around ₹4 lakh. Additionally, the IRCS offers a 50% discount on blood supplies to patients at Government Wenlock Hospital.

With over fifty years of service, the IRCS Mangaluru chapter has earned several state-level awards, including recognition for its blood bank management. The chapter is actively involved in various social activities, including organizing blood donation camps, distributing medical aids like wheelchairs, and running a permanent helpline and community library at Government Wenlock Hospital.

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